Small businesses are the backbone of the American economy. According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, small businesses account for more than half of all private sector jobs, and more than 60 percent of new jobs are created in America every year.
So, it is vitally important that small businesses do everything they can to promote themselves and grow their customer base.
That can be a challenge, given the limited resources most small businesses have compared to their larger counterparts.
However, it is not impossible, and there are plenty of creative ways small businesses can promote themselves without breaking the bank. Here are nine examples for you to look over and consider:
Create a social media presence
Social media is a powerful tool that can be used to promote your business, and it is one that more businesses are taking advantage of.
If you do not already have social media accounts for your business, create them now. And make sure to consistently post interesting and engaging content that will get people talking about your business.
If you need help with getting started, you may want to take a look at the best site to buy Instagram followers on to help you with your numbers, or you might think about researching the variety of ways you can build yourself up online through your accounts.
Get involved in your community
One of the best ways to promote your small business is to get involved in your local community. Volunteer for a charity or sponsor a local event. Not only will you be doing some good, but you will also be getting your business name out there in front of potential customers.
Create a website
If you do not have a website for your business, you need to create one as soon as possible. A website is an essential tool for promoting your business and attracting new customers.
For instance, if you’re running a car dealership, then there are agencies that specialise in automotive websites that can help you create the most alluring pages and content to attract customers to your business. Similarly, a contractor may get more business in his local area if he has a website that is designed specifically for that purpose.
So, make sure your website is well-designed and easy to navigate, and that it contains all the information potential customers might be looking for. and link it with your social media accounts.
Use online directories
Listing your business in online directories is a great way to get your business name and contact information out there. And it is often very affordable or even free to do. Do a search for “online directories” and you will find plenty of options to choose from.
Hand out flyers and brochures
Utilizing brochures and flyers is an effective strategy for promoting your small business. Consider brochure and flyer printing in Tucson, AZ, or your specific location to create these marketing materials. Once done with the process, distribute them in local businesses, hand them out when meeting people, or strategically place them in public areas such as libraries and coffee shops.
Make use of local print publications
In addition to online directories, there are also plenty of local print publications that you can make use of. These can be a great way to reach potential customers in your area who might not be using the internet to search for businesses.
Out-Of-Home (OOH) promotion
Out-Of-Home (OOH) promotion is an economical way to reach potential customers and develop brand recognition. It includes an array of media, such as public transport, billboards, and street furniture. This method also includes the installation of a letter sign (with the help of a channel letter sign company) to your business premises to draw in customers or those passing by. Another impactful approach to OOH advertising is the use of digital sign boards, which can be installed outside the stores in order to advertise and notify customers about future events, discounts, or special services.
Give away freebies
People love free stuff, so why not give away some promotional items with your business name and contact information on them? Pens, keychains, and magnets are all popular choices. Other than conventional gifts, you can also look out for unique ideas that can work in your favor by getting people interested in your business. Products like a Magic Logo Ball or similar merchandise could be a great option to explore since such items can come with special features and uses for raising brand awareness. You can give them away at local events or hand them out to people you meet.
Use car magnets and decals
If you have a company car, make use of it as a moving billboard by placing car magnets or decals on it. This is a great way to promote your business wherever you go, and it does not cost too much to do, as it will only be on your car.
Use word of mouth
Last but not least, do not forget about the power of word of mouth. If you provide good quality products or services, your customers will be happy to tell their friends and family about you. And that can be the best form of advertising there is.
These are just a few ideas to get you started. There are endless possibilities when it comes to promoting your small business.
Get creative and see what works best for you. And do not be afraid to try new things. With a little effort, you can get your small business the attention it deserves.